West End 3K kicks off Boulder Running Series

Siff returns as race director for first time since 2009

Caitlyn Mitchell age 6, smiles as hands extend to encourage her as she nears the finish line during the West End 3k in 2011. Special to The Camera/Kirk Speer
(KIRK SPEER)

For many, Thursday's 6 p.m. West End 3K signals the beginning to the Downtown Boulder Running Series that offers a little something for everyone.

For race director Barry Siff, it marks his return to the Boulder running scene for which he deeply cares about.

Siff and his wife Jodee hosted the West End 3K and other races in the series from 2007-09 through their athletic company, 5430 Sports. They sold the company to Ironman, which continued the races through 2011. But something drew Siff back.

"The love of the races," he said. "We love the running community here in Boulder."

Siff re-acquired 5430 Sports and the races in the Downtown Boulder Running Series earlier this year and is excited to be involved in the West End 3K again, which he said will look similar to the race of recent years.

"We basically bill it as a truly Boulder event," he said.

That means races will be held for all types of runners, including children, friends and families, as well as elite runners.

Siff said he wanted the West End 3K, which runs down Pearl Street between 11th and 4th streets, to retain the festive atmosphere from the past that attracts people who want to participate without pressure, as well as the serious competitors.

Children ages 11-under will get the race underway, running one loop for 1.5K, and then the non-competitive adult wave will run two loops after them. Siff said this part of the race is just a lot of fun with lots of prizes.

"These kids cross the finish line and get their names announced," he said.

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The final wave will see the competitive runners take to the course, and Siff said he expects to see notable names in the running community there, including members of the Japanese national running team.

For anyone interested in participating but not yet registered for the West End 3K, there is still time.

People can sign up from 4-5:30 p.m. today at the race site or find out more information at 5430sports.com. Children 11-under cost $20 to register and adults are $25.

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